Veterans Programs
We offer two unique opportunities for veterans through PATH Intl.’s Equine Assisted Service’s for Heroes program.
Riding for Veterans
We offer riding lessons to veterans of any skill level and horse experience. Through our riding program, veterans will learn fundamental horseback riding skills, improve physical strength, balance, and coordination.
Our veteran riders will work with instructors to set individualized riding goals as well as life skills goals focused on improving mental, emotional, and physical health. Many of our veteran participants have reported decreased levels of anxiety and depression, improved self-esteem, and sharper focus in their daily lives since joining our program.
Groundwork Program
In our groundwork program, veterans will learn how to care for and connect with horses through activities such as grooming, tacking, lead walking, lunging, and general horse care. These experiences establish a bond between our participants and their horses, teach them important non-verbal communication skills, and improve emotional regulation. As veterans build trust with their horse, they also see a decrease in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD, while boosting self-esteem and resilience. Through these interactions, veterans develop a stronger sense of purpose, increased community connection, and greater trust in others.
Why Horses and Veterans?
“Horses are highly reactive and mimic human emotion requiring calm, clear, intentional communication which promote awareness, self-control, and impulse modulation. Working with horses offers instant and constant feedback to participants, requires physical strength and balance, and is highly motivational, combining to make an exceptionally effective environment for leadership and personal growth.”
“Horses can sense your emotions and feelings… If you are tense, they are going to be tense. If you are anxious, they are going to be anxious. Especially, if you are in pain, they are going to sense you are in pain as well.”
Volunteering
Many of our veteran riders continue with GallopNYC as volunteers to continue growing their skills. Volunteer to help with barn work or support our riders during therapeutic riding lessons by leading or walking alongside the horse and supporting riders. Learn more about volunteer opportunities here.